David Sylvian Quick Links

In a musical career spanning 38 years, David Sylvian, has become somewhat of a byword for quality, a touchstone of consistency and an ever present ambassador for subtlety and sophistication. Having gone quietly about his business over the course of the last 5 decades he has amassed a stunning back catalogue that stands both as a true testament to such an accomplished artist but also one that clearly shows the depth and beauty of his compositions.

A Victim Of Stars is David's second compilation in as many years, the previous one, 2010's 'Sleepwalkers', focused purely on his collaborative work. This time around we are treated to a two disc celebration of his 30 year solo career. At 155 minutes long you are definitely not short changed. However, what is striking when you start to analyse the track listing is just how much brilliant material has had to be forsaken. Not being picked for the final draft, not making the cut or being passed over is akin to a Galactico being left on the subs bench for Real Madrid (Although I'm not sure Mr Sylvian would appreciate a football analogy, he doesn't strike me as the type!) Some formidable songs being rested that could easily make a subsequent playlist include 'Nostalgia', 'The Boy With The Gun' and 'Words With The Shaman' (Or anything from Alchemy at all) to name but a few.